Barbell Single Leg Split Squat

Targets the quads and glutes. Elevating the rear leg increases the instability and range of motion, making it an elite unilateral leg move.

Exercise Details

Level
Intermediate
Body Area
lower
Type
squat
Mechanics
Compound
Movement
Unilateral
Required Equipment
Target Muscle Groups
Primary
Secondary

Setup

Position the bar on your traps. Place your rear foot on a bench behind you. Stand tall on the front leg.

Instructions

1. Lower your hips until your front thigh is parallel to the floor.
2. Keep your torso upright.
3. Drive through the front heel to return.
4. Maintain knee alignment.
5. Switch legs.

Common Mistakes

1. Front knee collapsing inward.
2. Rounding the back.
3. Rear foot doing too much work.

Alternative Exercises

Squat
Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Quads / squat
The fundamental lower-body compound exercise. It targets the quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings while building core stability and overall functional strength.
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